Washington Union Educational Foundation (WUEF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization tasked with raising the necessary funds to maintain education such as art, music and technology programs for the Washington Union School District.
WUEF FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is WUEF?
Washington Union Educational Foundation (WUEF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose purpose is to raise the necessary funds to maintain educational programs such as the art and music but not limited to, for the Washington Union School District.
Why does the District need this funding?
The ratings and geography of our district create the perception that the district is well funded. Washington Union School District receives the least amount of funding per child than any other district in Monterey County. This is due to the little supplemental and concentration grant funding that is received from the state. In simpler terms, the students of the district do not meet the socioeconomic criteria to receive additional funds that may support programs such as art, music and technology that other districts may have access to.
What does WUEF funding pay for?
The funds raised pay for programs such as art and music instructor compensation as well technology needs of the district. This allows the district to continue supporting curriculum such as:
The Art Docent Program which includes monthly hands-on projects and Picture of the Month in all grades,
Supplemental funding for music instruments, sheet music and repairs.
Technology needs such as chromebooks, computer lab upgrades, educator equipment, etc....
NEW: As of the 2022-23 school year WUEF will also be providing a program in which educators can request funds to purchase curriculum, tools, and materials that would further enhance the student's educational experience.
Where does the money come from?
The funding comes directly from business sponsors, parents and guardians of the students who benefit from the program via contributions, fundraising, and grants. A small percentage comes from giving partnership programs like AmazonSmile.
Who decides where the money goes and how it’s used?
The Washington Union School District determines how the money is used with the exception of the teacher grants in which there is an application process for the educator to request funds. The board reviews the application to ensure that it will benefit the student's in a way the meets the mission statement of WUEF. WUEF does receive some grant funding and donations that specifically earmark funds for certain programs.
How much money is needed?
Each year the total amount WUEF must raise changes, generally increasing, based on the salaries negotiated by the district. The per student cost to fund these programs is determined by the district-estimated annual student enrollment. If $225 was contributed on behalf of each student in the district, the art and music programs would be fully funded . Any additional fundraising would strictly support technology.
Example: $140,000 (program needs) ÷ 725 (estimated student enrollment) = $195 per student
How can I volunteer?
WUEF NEEDS YOU! Contact us if you are interested in helping and making an impact!! We’d love to have your support.
Please contact President: Heather Purdom at: wuefpresident@gmail.com or wuef@washingtonusd.org.
Volunteering starts with signing-up at a “Back to School” or “Orientation” event with any WUEF member OR by dropping-in at any upcoming WUEF Board Meeting (2nd Tuesday of the month at Toro Park Elementary School Multi-Purpose Room at 6pm or via Zoom during social distancing.
What is a “Friend of WUEF”?
There are many families in the Washington Union School District that own (or are part of) a local small business. By becoming a “Friend of WUEF,” your donation will:
Advertise your business to the entire Washington Union School District. There are nearly 600 families who love to support local businesses!!! Your business name and logo will be displayed at all three school sites and during all WUEF sponsored events.
Support the art and music programs with a tax-deductible donation for your business.
Please visit our website at wuef.ejoinme.org to see additional options for business and corporate sponsorships.
820 Park Row, Box 473 Salinas, CA 93901 WUEF is a non-profit
501(c)(3) organization. Tax ID #77-0037407
